Kalamazoo Brewery Brings Back Lions-Themed IPA

Wax Wings Brewing Company reintroduces its Pride of the North IPA featuring packaging inspired by Detroit Lions jerseys.

Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Beer

Bold vector editorial illustration of two craft beer cans and a glass of ale, reflecting a local brewery's sports-themed product release. — Wax Wings Brewing Company has reintroduced its 'Pride of the North' IPA in Kalamazoo, featuring packaging inspired by Detroit Lions jerseys. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you enjoy when local businesses create products to show support for your area's sports teams?

Wax Wings Brewing Company in Kalamazoo officially reintroduced its Pride of the North IPA in October 2026. This beer features packaging designed to mirror the black and Honolulu blue of the Detroit Lions Motor City Muscle jerseys.

Why it matters

The brewery is offering this tribute beer to honor the Detroit Lions during the ongoing football season. The release aligns with major matchups, including the team's October 25 game against the Green Bay Packers.

The Pride of the North IPA contains 7.2% ABV and is available in a 14-ounce pour for $7, a 7-ounce half pour for $4.25, or a 16-ounce can for $5.

The players

Wax Wings Brewing Company

A Kalamazoo-based craft brewery located at 3480 Gull Road that specializes in unique ale production.

Detroit Lions

A professional American football team that competes in the National Football League and plays its home games at Ford Field.

The details

Located at 3480 Gull Road, the brewery distributes the IPA on tap and in cans to fans throughout the local community. The current batch is expected to remain available through the team's game against the Chicago Bears in November.

The Pride of the North IPA was first introduced in 2024.
The brewery reintroduced the beer in October 2026.
The Lions game against the Green Bay Packers takes place on October 25, 2026.
Availability is anticipated through the Bears game in November 2026.

Culture Shift

This release follows the established trend of craft breweries using sports-themed branding to increase local engagement and appeal to team fanbases. It reflects a shift toward hyper-localized marketing where craft products capitalize on regional team loyalty to drive consumer interest.

Kalamazoo residents and visitors can find the limited-edition IPA on tap or in cans at the brewery throughout the football season. Those looking to secure a can for game day should plan their purchase before the November batch sells out following the Bears game.

The takeaway

Limited-release specialty beers often serve as community touchpoints that bridge the gap between local sports fandom and craft brewing culture. Readers can support local businesses by checking brewery social media pages for inventory updates during peak game weekends.